10 Telecommuting Careers That Can Make You Rich

If you're just as fluent in programming languages as you are in your native language, a career in programming could be for you.

HSW 2008

Experienced software and Web programmers are in high demand, and an increasing number of companies view telecommuting as way to retain talented employees. Cisco Systems, for example, allows many of its 65,000 employees in 92 countries to interact through video conferencing instead of face-to-face meetings [source: Reuteman].

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 80 percent of software or Web programmers have earned a bachelor's degree in computer science or information systems [source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics]. However, depending on the job requirements, you may be able to apply for a telecommuting programmer position with an associate's degree or a certificate in a related field. Programmers with proven skills in Java, C#, SQL and other Web and software development scripts can easily pick up freelance projects and work from home. There are even dedicated Web sites, like Programming from Home, that specialize in freelance programming job listings.